Consensus on telepractice service delivery practices with vulnerable families: a Delphi study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: In recent years family services have been required to rapidly employ telehealth without access to a reliable and contemporary evidence-base for implementation. This study explores expert views on systems and practices that facilitate telehealth in the delivery of family support services to vulnerable families. Method: Using the Delphi survey method, an inventory comprising 124 telepractices was presented to an initial panel of telepractice researchers and practitioners (N = 23) for ratings across three survey rounds. The panel was asked to provide feedback and suggestions for further inclusions, leading to an additional 29 items. Results: Results indicate 119 telepractice strategies were endorsed as essential and/or feasible for family services. These strategies were spread across five domains including practices prior to service delivery, practices during telepractice, practices when working with group programs, practices when working with culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and support for practitioners. Discussion: Practices that facilitate organisational support for practitioners, flexible service modality, and equitable access and privacy attracted the strongest endorsement. The findings support a hybrid model of service delivery in family services.